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NFL world reacts to Falcons' pre-draft trade with Jaguars
TL;DR
The Atlanta Falcons traded defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro to the Jacksonville Jaguars for Maason Smith. Both players were second-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft, with Orhorhoro having a better pass-rushing record while Smith is noted for his run defense.
Key points
- Falcons traded Ruke Orhorhoro for Maason Smith
- Both players were second-round picks in the 2024 NFL Draft
- Orhorhoro recorded 12 solo tackles and 3.5 sacks last season
- Smith is known for his run-stuffing ability
- Falcons aim to improve their defensive line
Atlanta FalconsJacksonville JaguarsRuke OrhorhoroMaason Smith
The Atlanta Falcons swung a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Friday, swapping defensive lineman Ruke Orhorhoro for second-year defensive tackle Maason Smith. The two former second-round selections were taken 13 picks apart in the 2024 NFL Draft. The Falcons traded up to get Orhorhoro with the 35th overall pick, while the Jaguars snagged Smith with pick No. 48 overall. Orhorhoro was a healthy scratch for the first half of his rookie year but found a role in 2025. The former Clemson standout appeared in all 17 games last season, recording 12 solo tackles and 3.5 sacks. Orhorhoro is a better pass rusher, but Smith is the better run defender. Atlanta needed someone who can play nose tackle and Orhorhoro is best as a 3-tech. Smith, 23, gives the Falcons a true run-stuffing presence with plenty of upside. The former LSU defensive lineman has appeared in 24 career games, recording 32 tackles (14 solo), and three sacks. Falcons fans weren't exactly sure what to think of the rare player-for-player trade. Here's how those around the league reacted to Atlanta swapping Orhorhoro for Smith.
NFL world react to Falcons-Jaguars trade
When we said the Falcons need to free Ruke from playing NT we didnt mean they had to trade him 😂 @NFLSEshow
— Trevor Sikkema (@TampaBayTre) April 17, 2026 The uber-rare player-for-player at the same position trade!
— Jacob Nierob (@JNierob) April 17, 2026 Another one of those Terry Fontenot Day 2 gems
— Adnan Ikic (@SayWhichWay) April 17, 2026 Ruke: 35th overall pick in 2024. 706 career defensive snaps over two seasons
Maason: 48th overall pick in 2024. 656 career defensive snaps over two seasons
Both players could use fresh starts
— Benjamin Solak (@BenjaminSolak) April 17, 2026 Im very surprised by this. Two very different DTs, a more attacking one for a reacting one
Q&A
What players were involved in the Falcons-Jaguars trade?
The trade involved Ruke Orhorhoro from the Falcons and Maason Smith from the Jaguars.
Why did the Falcons trade Ruke Orhorhoro for Maason Smith?
The Falcons aimed to strengthen their run defense by acquiring Smith, who is known for his run-stuffing ability.
How did Ruke Orhorhoro perform in his rookie season?
Orhorhoro was a healthy scratch for the first half of his rookie year but recorded 12 solo tackles and 3.5 sacks in the 2025 season.
What are the career stats for Maason Smith with the Jaguars?
Maason Smith has appeared in 24 career games, recording 32 tackles and three sacks.
